Budget Interior Design – Triadic Colour Schemes

As we’ve discussed in earlier posts, different color schemes are based on different combinations of colors in the color wheel. Here’s a summarized image that we have used previous articles to illustrate the variations.

Credit: theoldhouse.com

What is a Triadic Colour Scheme in Interior Design and Décor?

Triadic color schemes in are created by using three colors that are equally spaced from each other on the famous color wheel. The idea probably sounds familiar because we have already discussed two triadic color schemes:

Primary colors – these are red, yellow and blue, and equidistant from one another on the color wheel,

Secondary – these are orange, green and violet, created by combining two primary colors, hence these too, are at equal distances from one another. (Read about primary and secondary colors, and the effect they have on your home’s decor).

To create a harmonious effect in your home’s decor, you should lower the intensity and values of triadic colors to avoid a cluttered look. If you feel it is not possible to reduce the values and intensities of all three colors, then consider doing so for at least one color, to tone down the overall effect.

Apart from the ones mentioned above (as primary and secondary colors) you can form a triadic color scheme based on lots of combinations, such as red-orange, blue-violet and yellow-green.

Creating a Triadic Color Scheme in Your Home’s Interior

Credit: homesynchronize.com

The triadic color scheme in this picture shows a lively interior that relies on different values and intensities of the primary colors, red, yellow and blue. The color yellow has been used to its full intensity (a little too full, for my taste, but perhaps not others) in the walls, and a slightly less bold shade has been chosen for the chair upholstery. Notice that the color blue seen in the upholstery and carpet has been toned down to reduce the sharp contrast that would have resulted is the color was used at its full intensity.

Lastly, light traces of the color red are seen as accessories, to add a bit of softness to the overall room’s impression. Overall, the three colors have been blended well to create a cheerful setting.